Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! If you’ve ever had the pleasure of indulging in the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, then you know it’s a culinary masterpiece. Now, imagine all that cheesy, meaty goodness wrapped up in a crispy, gooey quesadilla. That’s right, I’m talking about Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas! These salty, savory delights have become a staple in my kitchen, especially when I’m searching for a quick dinner that feels special and doesn’t require a ton of effort.
In fact, I first made these quesadillas during a busy weeknight when I was trying to use up some leftover chicken from Sunday’s roast. As I combined everything in my non-stick skillet, I could hardly contain my excitement. The aroma that filled my kitchen was heavenly! Not only did they turn out delicious, but they also became an instant family favorite. Trust me, once you give this recipe a try, you’ll be making it a regular on your cooking roster!
What’s in Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas?
Let’s break down the fantastic ingredients that make these quesadillas not just easy, but oh-so-delicious!
Flour Tortillas: The base of our quesadilla! I prefer large tortillas for more filling, but feel free to use smaller ones if that’s what you have.
Cooked Chicken Breast: Shredded chicken is the star of the show, bringing both flavor and protein. I often use leftover chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Ham: Thinly sliced ham adds that classic Cordon Bleu flavor. Choose a good quality ham for the best results!
Swiss Cheese: Melty, delicious Swiss cheese (or your favorite cheese) really ties everything together. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a kick!
Breadcrumbs: I like to use panko breadcrumbs for that extra crunch. They make the outside of the quesadilla all the more delightful!
Butter: Melting some butter gives that beautiful golden brown crust and brings all the flavors together.
Chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to our dish.
Dijon Mustard: A tangy touch! This is totally optional but really elevates the dish when served alongside.
Is Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas Good for You?
These quesadillas are quite a delightful treat but remember to keep balance in mind!
Chicken Breast: Lean protein is key here, helping you feel full and energized. It’s a great source of B vitamins that support your overall well-being.
Ham: While it adds delicious flavor, ham can be high in sodium. Opt for lower-sodium varieties if you’re watching your salt intake.
Swiss Cheese: Cheese is delicious but high in fat – so moderation is key! It does offer calcium and protein, though.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add crunch but also extra carbs. If you’re looking to cut down on carbs, you can skip them, though they make the quesadilla so satisfying!
In a nutshell, enjoy these quesadillas as an occasional indulgence, paired with a side salad or some steamed veggies to give it a wholesome edge.
Ingredients List
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1 cup ham, thinly sliced
– 2 cups Swiss cheese (or your favorite cheese), shredded
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Dijon mustard, for serving
*This recipe serves 2.*
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas?
Now for the fun part! Here’s how to whip up these cheesy bites of goodness:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. If you want to prevent sticking, add a smidge of oil or butter.
2. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sliced ham, and half of the Swiss cheese. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay one flour tortilla in the skillet and scatter half of the remaining cheese on one side. Top that cheesy goodness with the chicken and ham mixture.
4. Pile on the other half of the Swiss cheese, then fold the tortilla over the filling.
5. Brush the top of the quesadilla with melted butter and sprinkle on half of the breadcrumbs. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
6. Gently flip the quesadilla with a spatula. Brush the other side with melted butter and sprinkle the remaining breadcrumbs. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, making sure the cheese is thoroughly melted.
7. Once done, remove your glorious quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before slicing into wedges.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with a side of Dijon mustard if you please. Enjoy these cheesy wonders!
Quesadilla Inspirations
These quesadillas are super versatile! You can add in some sautéed veggies like spinach or peppers for added nutrition. If you want to spice things up, try adding jalapeños for a kick!
And if you’re feeling festive, why not use some flavored tortillas, such as spinach or sun-dried tomato? The options are endless!
So there you have it! I really hope you give these Chicken Cordon Bleu Quesadillas a whirl. They’re such a fun twist on a classic dish, and I promise you won’t be disappointed. When you do make them, share your thoughts or any fun variations you try! Happy cooking, my friend!
